Do expats need health insurance in Mauritius?
Health insurance is strongly recommended for expats. The EDB requires evidence of health cover for most permit applications, and private insurance ensures access to the better-equipped private hospitals.
Is it required?
The Economic Development Board (EDB) requires applicants for most Occupation Permits and the Premium Visa to provide evidence of health insurance coverage. While there is no specific minimum policy value specified in the regulations, a policy that covers hospitalisation and medical evacuation is expected.
Why private insurance matters
Mauritius's public healthcare system is free for permit holders, but the private hospitals — particularly Wellkin and Apollo Bramwell — offer a significantly better experience for elective procedures, specialist consultations, and anything that requires modern equipment. Without private insurance, you pay out of pocket at these facilities.
What to look for in a policy
- Inpatient and outpatient coverage (many basic policies only cover hospitalisation)
- Specialist consultations without referral requirements
- Emergency dental cover
- Medical evacuation — crucial for serious cases that cannot be handled locally
- Maternity cover if relevant (usually requires a waiting period of 10–12 months)
- Pre-existing conditions: declare everything accurately; most international policies exclude undisclosed pre-existing conditions
Recommended providers
International health insurance providers widely used by Mauritius-based expats include Cigna Global, AXA PPP International, Aetna International, and Allianz Care. Premiums for a comprehensive plan covering a 40-year-old non-smoker typically run USD 150–250 per month. Family plans cost USD 400–700 per month.
Local options
MCB Insurance and Swan Life also offer local health insurance products that are accepted by private hospitals. Local plans are cheaper (MUR 3,000–6,000/month for an adult) but may not cover evacuation or treatment abroad.
More Articles
Mauritius has a competent public healthcare system available free to all residents, complemented by a growing private sector with modern hospitals that are adequate for most routine and elective care.
Wellkin Hospital in Moka and Apollo Bramwell Hospital are the two most capable private hospitals in Mauritius, with the widest range of specialties and modern equipment.
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